Construction Begins on New Stadium at Capistrano Valley High School

Architectural rendering of the new stadium showcasing modern design features.

News Summary

Construction has officially commenced on a new stadium at Capistrano Valley High School, marking a significant upgrade in athletic facilities. The project is expected to enhance seating capacity and modern amenities such as a new press box and improved visitor areas. Funded through state matching and redevelopment funds, the total cost is estimated at $21.5 million and is anticipated to be completed by next spring. Due to the ongoing construction, the school’s upcoming graduation ceremony has been relocated to a nearby venue.

Mission Viejo – Construction has officially begun on a new stadium at Capistrano Valley High School, marking a significant upgrade for the school’s athletic facilities. The project, which kicked off after a groundbreaking event held on May 28, is anticipated to be completed by next spring and comes with a price tag of $21.5 million. This new venue will replace the school’s previous stadium, which was demolished to make way for the new structure.

The modern athletic facility will span approximately six acres on the northwestern side of the 42-acre campus located at 26301 Via Escolar. It is designed to accommodate a larger number of spectators, with bleachers that will increase their current capacity from 1,886 to 2,750 seats. Home-side bleachers will gain a significant upgrade, increasing from 1,312 seats to 2,000, and will feature a new press box with elevator access. Visitor bleachers will also see improvements, rising from 574 seats to 750 seats.

The enhanced stadium will include several modern amenities aimed at improving the overall experience for athletes and spectators alike. Among these features are new bleachers, an updated press box, concession and ticket booths, team rooms, a weight room, a newly resurfaced and striped track, improved fencing, and a state-of-the-art sound system. Work on installing underground utilities is currently underway, a key first step in the overall construction process.

Funding for the stadium’s construction draws from a combination of sources, notably state matching funds and leftover city redevelopment funds from the city of Mission Viejo. Importantly, the district did not seek new bonds for this project. The Capistrano School Board authorized the allocation of approximately $7.1 million in expected state reimbursement funds to assist in financing the stadium. Additional funding sources include leftover funds from previous projects at Aliso Niguel High School and Newhart Middle School. A community financing district (CFD 87-1) established in 1987 to support school construction in parts of Aliso Viejo and Mission Viejo is also contributing to the project’s funding. Although homeowners ceased funding the district in 2016, approximately $11 million remained available for school facilities, aiding this development. Additional funds originated from old redevelopment initiatives returned to the city after the closure of redevelopment agencies in 2012.

The impact of the construction work extends beyond the physical changes to the school grounds. Due to the ongoing construction, the upcoming graduation ceremony for Capistrano Valley High School, scheduled for June 5, is being relocated to the Saddleback College stadium to ensure a smooth celebration for graduates and their families.

The new stadium is not only a crucial investment in the school’s athletic capabilities but also represents a comprehensive effort to enhance the educational and recreational environment for students in the area. As the construction progresses, local community members are eagerly anticipating the completion of what promises to be a state-of-the-art facility.

With the plans set in motion and construction actively underway, the new Capistrano Valley High School stadium is expected to become a centerpiece of local sports, accommodating large crowds and serving as a hub for community events, all while enriching the athletic experience for the school’s teams and students.